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Basilica of Constantine
ancient building, Rome, Italy
Also known as: Basilica of Maxentius
Basilica of ConstantineThe clerestory of the Basilica of Constantine, Rome.
Basilica of Constantine, large, roofed hall in Rome, begun by the emperor Maxentius and finished by Constantine about ce 313. This huge building, the greatest of the secular Roman basilicas, covered about 7,000 square yards (5,600 square meters) and included a central nave that was 265 feet (80 meters) long and 83 feet (25 meters) wide.
The basilica followed in construction and plan the great hall of the Roman baths. The vaults over the bays on the north side are still to be seen overhanging without support, a striking testimony to the marvelous cohesion and enduring strength of Roman concrete construction.
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica This article was most recently revised and updated by Melissa Petruzzello.
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